Plumbing & Mechanical Contractor - Articles

The arm of a businessman gives gold coins to another cropped arm of a man.

Guest Editorial | Chris Buttenham

Phantom stock and profit sharing for top talent

How offering meaningful financial incentives attracts quality talent to privately-owned business.

March 26, 2025

Small businesses can attract new talent by allowing employees to share in the company's success. Offering phantom stock and profit-sharing can help employees feel valued and invested, moving beyond just earning a paycheck.

Maintenance female engineer working in hydroelectric power station. Checking the condition of the power equipment, and analysing the data and results of measurements with a mobile app.

Addressing water-related challenges through advocacy and standards development

ICC joins industry-defining pledge to tackle both water scarcity and AMR.

Tom Roberts

March 24, 2025

Plumbers are vital for ensuring safe water for drinking and sanitation. Their role will become even more critical as we face new water-related challenges.

AO Smith technician shaking hands with a man standing by a heat pump water heater(HPWH).

Heat Pump Water Heaters

Training and education essential to keep up with heat pump market growth

Manufacturers offer installation and maintenance tips for contractors.

Brandon Paykamian

March 20, 2025

The heat pump water heater (HPWH) market is set to grow from nearly $100 billion in 2024 to $156.59 billion by 2030, fueled by energy efficiency regulations, rising energy costs, urbanization, and a demand for sustainable solutions.

The architect is talking about a new project in the meeting room. Four people are sitting at the table, three wearing yellow construction vests and two white safety helmets on the table.

Guest Editorial | Destry Thompson

From apprentice to all-star

Investing in employee training and development.

Destry Thompson

March 19, 2025

In the plumbing and HVAC industry, equipping your team with essential skills is crucial. As a general manager, I've seen how investing in training transforms apprentices into top performers, creating a skilled and adaptable workforce.

Top view of a a heart shape of people, showing unity and teamwork.

The Blue Collar Coach | Kenny Chapman

Empathy as a competitive advantage

Steps to lead with empathy to improve your business.

Kenny Chapman

March 17, 2025

Empathy is a critical leadership tool in the home services trades, enhancing decision-making and fostering innovation, employee satisfaction, and retention. Research shows that empathetic leaders can significantly drive success, making it more than just a soft skill.

Colourful sale labels with an orange to neutral gradient background.

Contractor's Corner | Dave Yates

Price complaint department

Price is not a dirty word!

Dave Yates

March 17, 2025

Facing price complaints from customers? Remember to keep your cool! Start by empathizing with their frustrations about rising costs everywhere. Explain the challenges small businesses face, highlighting how online retailers can undercut prices due to lower overhead. Always keep the conversation constructive and focused on solutions.